So, if you are here, reading this I am assuming you are planning to learn Malayalam and it won’t be wrong to say that you are here to know more before taking the leap!

Learning a new language can always be an enriching experience.

Before you actually start learning any language it is a good idea to understand where you stand and what is level that you would like to reach. 

These are established by the Council of Europe known as the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages. There are six levels within this framework which are A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2. 

Let us understand what these levels mean and what can you expect from yourself when learning Malayalam according to these levels.

A1 or the beginner level is where you can understand very basic expressions, introduce yourself and ask others about their personal details. At this level, you can interact as long as the other person speaks slowly and clearly.

A2 or the elementary level is where you can understand the most frequently used expressions and complete tasks related to routine and direct exchange of information. You can also describe matters of immediate needs in simple terms.

B1 or the intermediate level is where you can understand various points related to family, work, school or leisure activities. You can also deal with most travel situations in areas where Malayalam is spoken.

B2 or the upper intermediate level is where you achieve fluency and spontaneity that allows you to interact with the native speakers in a comfortable manner.

C1 or the advanced level is where you are able to understand, communicate and express yourself in a fluent way without too much searching.

C2 is the proficiency level at which you are able to understand almost everything that you read or hear. You can express yourself in a precise manner in complex scenarios as well.

These levels help you in self-assessment and ensure that you follow an organised approach of preparation for your examination. These levels also help you showcase your language proficiency level when applying for a course or a job.

If you are interested in learning Malayalam, you can find the apt course for you based on these levels at Multibhashi which is an excellent language learning platform.

Along with these levels of language learning, it is also important to understand that there are various dialects based on region, religion, and social strata.

Formal and informal are the two basic styles of Malayalam, the former used in television, radio, writing and public speaking whereas the latter is used by people in regular speech.

Apart from thirteen regional dialects, Malayalam also varied depending on caste and religion. Dialect spoken by Hindus has more Sanskrit influence whereas the dialect spoken by Christians has an influence of Portuguese, Latin and English and the dialect spoken by Muslims is influenced by Arabic and Urdu.  

Mass media and mass education have slowly started giving rise to a standardised form of spoken Malayalam. Understanding the difference in these dialects and learning the local dialect can always help in easy communication with the local people.

Thus, understanding the different proficiency levels help you learn and prepare for these aspects in an informed manner. Understanding the difference in local dialects can give you a clear insight into the way people communicate and their cultural and traditional practices.

Now that you know the levels of Malayalam, check where you stand and start learning this Dravidian language.